Inadmissibility

In some cases a person may be denied a visa, or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), refused entry to, or removed from Canada for reasons of inadmissibility. They are known as inadmissible under Canadian Immigration law.

Inadmissibility can fall within any of these grounds:

Security reasons, including espionage, subversion, violence or terrorism, or membership in an organization involved in any of these

Human or international rights violations, including war crimes, crimes against humanity or being a senior official in a government engaged in gross human rights violations or subject to international sanctions

Committing a serious crime that would be punishable by a maximum prison term of at least 10 years in Canada

Having been convicted of a crime, including driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol

Organized crime, including membership in an organization that takes part in organized criminal activity, people smuggling or money laundering

Health grounds – if their condition is likely to endanger public health or public safety, or cause excessive demands on health or social services

Financial reasons – if they are unable or unwilling to support themselves and their family members

Misrepresentation, which includes providing false information or withholding information directly related to decisions made under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA)

Failure to comply with any provision of IRPA

Having an inadmissible family member.

Overcoming Inadmissibility

Normally you cannot enter or stay in Canada if you are inadmissible. However, there are ways of overcoming your criminal inadmissibility.

If you are inadmissible, you may become admissible again if you:

Are deemed rehabilitated;

Apply for individual rehabilitation and get approved; or

Receive a pardon or record suspension.

You may also be offered a temporary resident permit if your reason to travel to Canada is considered justified in the circumstances and you do not pose a risk because of your inadmissibility.

If you have issues that may affect you admissibility to Canada, contact us for a consultation to discuss your concerns and determine if there is a solution for you.